Smartphones Should Not Be Given to Children Under 11, Phone Company Advises
One of the major mobile network providers in the UK has announced that it will caution parents against giving smartphones to children under 11. This recommendation follows increasing concerns among parents regarding the risks associated with early smartphone access.
A recent report by the UK’s communications regulator revealed that about 25% of British children aged between five and seven now own a smartphone. In response, EE will introduce new guidelines suggesting that young children should use phones with limited functions, such as only text and call capabilities.
For teens under 16, EE will recommend activating parental controls and limiting social media access for those under 13. The trend of providing smartphones to children, especially around the age of 11 when they transition from primary to secondary school, has faced growing scrutiny from parents. While often justified for safety reasons, there are concerns about exposure to online dangers, including predators, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content.
Mat Sears, EE’s corporate affairs director, noted, “Technology and connectivity offer significant benefits, but the complexity of smartphones presents challenges for parents. We are introducing these new guidelines to support parents in making informed decisions about smartphone use for their children during crucial developmental stages.”
Jonathan Haidt, a US author known for his book “The Anxious Generation,” has also called for collective action among parents to limit smartphone access. He suggests that avoiding smartphones until at least age 14 and social media until age 16 can help mitigate negative effects on children’s development. Haidt emphasizes that while individual efforts can be challenging, a unified approach can make it easier for families to adhere to these standards.
